Master of Theological Studies in New Testament Language and Literature
Program overview
The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) in New Testament Language and Literature is a thirty-six credit hour program that provides students with an immersive education in biblical Greek and in the text of the New Testament. Students will learn Biblical Greek and will develop the skills needed to conduct quality exegesis. M.T.S. students benefit from the guidance of our expert faculty and the use of state-of-the-art learning tools.
M.T.S. in New Testament Language and Literature Courses
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Theological Research, Writing, & Rhetoric (TH608; 3 Credit Hours)
This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to engage in rigorous theological research and produce high-quality academic writing. This course aims to cultivate critical thinking, research competence, and effective communication within the realms of theology, biblical studies, and ministry.
Introduction to the New Testament I: Gospels & Acts (BS500; 3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the New Testament will introduce New Testament studies and will provide an examination of each book that comprises the New Testament. Additionally, this course will consider issues such as the transmission of the New Testament, its authorship, various literary genres, and canonicity.
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Introduction to the New Testament II: Pauline Epistles (BS501; 3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the New Testament II: Pauline Epistles examines the Pauline corpus in terms of its literature, rhetoric, and theological import. Students will apprehend the cultural and historical context of each letter as they develop an appreciation for Paul's corpus as an integral part of the NT canon. Careful attention will be given to Paul's soteriological developments and his approach to conflict within the body of Christ.
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Introduction to the New Testament III: General Epistles & Revelation (BS502; 3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to the New Testament III: General Epistles & Revelation will familiarize students with the contents of the non-Pauline letters and Revelation with a special focus on their literary genre, historical and cultural settings, and theological meaning. Students analyze key themes (e.g., Christian living; suffering) and produce an exegesis of a select passage.
New Testament Background (BS508; 3 Credit Hours)
New Testament Background explores the historical, social, and theological context of the New Testament. Students will examine the historicity of the people and events described in the New Testament as well as the life and ministry of Christ and his apostles.
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Biblical Hermeneutics (BS507; 3 Credit Hours)
Biblical Hermeneutics will provide a careful introduction to the task of biblical interpretation, especially as it relates to the Old Testament. Students will learn about the different approaches to hermeneutics and will be instructed in an evenhanded approach that honors evangelical conviction regarding the absolute truthfulness and relevance of Scripture but also acknowledges the importance of recognizing how the interpreter’s experience and background affect interpretation.
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Biblical Greek I (BS605; 3 Credit Hours)
Biblical Greek I immerses students in the original language of the New Testament. Students will learn the Greek alphabet, Erasmian pronunciation, the noun system, article, the verb of being, personal pronouns, demonstratives, relative pronouns, the present active indicative verb, and contract verbs.
Biblical Greek II (BS606; 3 Credit Hours)
Building upon the skills acquired in Biblical Greek I, students will learn the indicative and nonindicative verb systems and participles. Additionally, students will develop and sharpen their translation skills in preparation for NT exegesis.
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​New Testament Exegesis (BS677; 3 Credit Hours)
New Testament Exegesis builds upon the skills acquired in Greek I-II and provides students with an introduction to NT textual criticism, translation theory, and exegetical method. The course culminates in a substantial exegesis of a selected pericope.
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Exegesis of Galatians (BS678; 3 Credit Hours)
This course explores in detail Paul's Epistle to the Galatians and provides a special focus on both the soteriological and covenantal aspects of the letter. The course will emphasize sound hermeneutical principles for discovering the meaning of the text and for applying that meaning in teaching and preaching.
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Electives (6 Credit Hours)
M.T.S. in New Testament Language and Literature students choose two biblical studies or theology electives totaling six credit hours.
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Program Prerequisites:
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Membership in a local church
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General agreement with FTS' doctrinal stance
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An undergraduate degree consisting of four years of study or its equivalent.